By Derrick Omoding
Eng. Martine Onguruco, an engineer by profession, has quickly risen to prominence in Serere District’s political arena, driven by his dedication to community service and his vision for sustainable development.
With a background in infrastructure development, Onguruco is positioning himself as the frontrunner in the 2026 Serere LC5 Chairmanship race, where he is gaining widespread support among voters seeking a fresh start for the district.
Onguruco, who previously contested for Serere County MP in 2021 and participated in the Serere by-election, is no stranger to political competition.
Though he did not win those races, coming in third during the 2021 election, he has earned the respect and admiration of many for his consistent efforts to improve the lives of the people in Serere District.
His engineering expertise and passion for development have made him a well-known figure in the region, particularly for his focus on infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
Achievements and Professional Background
Martine Onguruco has an extensive professional background in engineering, which has shaped his approach to solving the challenges facing Serere District.
His career has seen him involved in various infrastructure projects, both within the district and beyond, with a special focus on road construction, water supply systems, and public facilities.
Onguruco has used his engineering skills to advocate for improved infrastructure, a sector he believes is crucial for boosting economic activity and enhancing access to basic services.
One of Onguruco’s most significant achievements is his contribution to improving road networks and clean water in Serere District.
He has worked closely with local governments and development partners to advocate for better roads, which are essential for rural communities to access markets, healthcare, and education.
In addition, Onguruco has played a role in securing clean water projects, aiming to reduce the water shortages that have plagued many communities in Serere.
Beyond infrastructure, Onguruco is known for his advocacy for education and healthcare improvements.
He has called for the construction of more schools and health centers, especially in underserved areas, to ensure that all residents have access to quality services.
His work in this area has earned him the trust of educators and healthcare workers who see him as a leader who understands the challenges on the ground.
Onguruco’s 2026 Manifesto
In his bid for the 2026 LC5 Chairmanship, Onguruco has laid out a detailed manifesto that centers on transparency, development, and the upliftment of the Serere community. His manifesto is built on five key pillars:
1. Infrastructure Development:
Onguruco promises to prioritize road construction and maintenance, ensuring that rural areas are connected to the main highways, enabling easier access to markets, schools, and health centers. He also plans to push for improvements in water supply and sanitation systems.
2. Healthcare Improvement:
One of Onguruco’s top priorities is expanding access to quality healthcare.
“My plan is to work with both the central government and international donors to increase the number of health facilities in Serere and improve the quality of services provided”, he said.
3. Education for All:
Onguruco is committed to addressing the educational needs of the district, with a focus on building new schools, providing scholastic materials, and improving teacher training. He believes that education is key to lifting Serere out of poverty and creating opportunities for future generations.
4. Economic Empowerment:
Onguruco’s economic plan includes supporting small-scale farmers, boosting local businesses, and promoting tourism in Serere.
“I will commit myself to provide technical and financial assistance to farmers, ensuring they can access markets and improve their productivity”, he stated.
5. Transparency and Good Governance:
Recognizing the frustrations of the electorate with past leadership, Onguruco pledges to run a transparent and accountable government.
He vows to fight corruption, ensure efficient use of resources, and engage citizens in decision-making processes.
Vision for Serere
Eng. Martine Onguruco envisions a prosperous Serere where infrastructure is robust, healthcare is accessible, and education is a priority.
His background in engineering, coupled with his practical experience in project management, gives him a unique advantage in addressing the district’s challenges.
His manifesto reflects a commitment to inclusive growth, and his popularity among the electorates suggests that he may very well be the leader Serere has been waiting for.
As the 2026 elections draw closer, voters are increasingly looking to Onguruco as the candidate who can bring real change to Serere District, offering hope for a future built on development, integrity, and service to the people.